Possession of a Firearm Under the Influence in Ohio

Ohio law identifies certain misdemeanors that can happen accidentally depending on the situation. A prime example is carrying a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Ohio regulations strictly forbid handling or carrying a gun during or after consuming alcohol. It doesn’t matter how intoxicated you are or if you actually fired the weapon—you can still face serious legal trouble under Ohio statute.

Common Scenarios Leading to Charges

• Accidental Carry: People often face charges simply because they forgot they had their gun on them. This frequently happens to concealed carry license holders who forget to disarm before drinking.
• Traffic Stops: Another common situation involves being pulled over by police for a routine traffic stop. If officers find a firearm and determine you are intoxicated, you can be charged regardless of your intent or whether you realized the weapon was there.

Charges for possessing a firearm while intoxicated are serious misdemeanors that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you are facing these allegations, reaching out to a Youngstown criminal lawyer is a critical first step.

Legal Defense for Firearm Intoxication Charges in Ohio

If you are implicated in an incident involving carrying a firearm while under the influence, getting trusted legal advice is imperative. A conviction could mean a substantial misdemeanor on your permanent criminal record, which can affect your future. Protecting your rights requires the help of skilled legal counsel from a reputable source like the Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we understand how overwhelming weapons charges can be, especially when they stem from an honest mistake. Our goal is to alleviate your legal burden and secure the best possible result for your case. A qualified Youngstown DUI attorney from our team is ready to provide top-tier representation.

Call us today at 412.387.6901 to schedule a free initial consultation. Let us answer your questions and explain your legal options in detail.

Why Does Ohio Regulate Firearms and Alcohol?

Lawmakers created these regulations because possessing firearms while under the influence poses a significant threat to public safety. Alcohol consumption impairs judgment, as well as physical and mental coordination, making the handling of guns particularly dangerous. This law allows law enforcement to intervene and potentially prevent violent crimes by disarming intoxicated individuals who are carrying weapons.

Strict penalties were established to discourage concealed carry permit holders from drinking and driving. Since driving while impaired already increases the risk of car crashes, adding a firearm to the mix could lead to even more severe consequences, such as the accidental discharge of the weapon. Legislators designed these laws to protect the residents of Ohio and its police officers. If you need help navigating these laws, a Youngstown criminal lawyer can guide you through the process.

Key Points of Ohio’s Intoxicated Firearm Possession Law

Ohio law (specifically Ohio Revised Code section 2923.15) prohibits anyone from carrying a “firearm” or “dangerous ordinance” while intoxicated. A “firearm” is defined as any lethal weapon capable of firing projectiles using explosive or flammable propellants. It is important to remember that the gun does not need to be loaded for a charge to apply.

The term “dangerous ordnance” includes any of the following items or modifications:

• Automatic or modified firearms, such as sawed-off shotguns, ballistic knives, or zip-guns
• Explosive or incendiary devices
• Military explosives used in demolition, mining, or blasting, like nitroglycerin or treated ammonium nitrate
• Weapons typically found in military contexts, such as rocket launchers, mortars, artillery, grenades, and their necessary ammunition
• Devices designed to silence or muffle the sound of a firearm
• Parts that, when assembled, convert a firearm or other device into a dangerous ordnance

Being caught with a firearm while under the influence can result in a first-degree misdemeanor charge. This could lead to up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Consult a Youngstown DUI attorney to understand the specific penalties you might face.

Additional Resources

Learn More About Ohio Gun Legislation

• National Rifle Association: For a comprehensive understanding of Ohio’s gun regulations, the National Rifle Association’s website is a valuable resource. You can engage with the association, learn about its history, and stay updated on political discussions and legal changes regarding firearms.
• Understanding Firearms Possession While Intoxicated: The Ohio Revised Code’s official website offers a deep dive into the specifics of the statute regarding carrying a firearm under the influence. Use their platform to review the elements of the law, potential legal consequences, and identify related offenses and their penalties.

Legal Help for Weapons Charges in Youngstown, OH

When facing charges related to carrying a weapon while intoxicated, aligning yourself with an experienced legal ally is essential. The Youngstown Criminal Law Group distinguishes itself with extensive experience in the criminal justice system of Mahoning County.

Contact a Youngstown criminal lawyer at our group promptly at 412.387.6901 to learn how we serve the Youngstown area. We can conduct a detailed discussion of your case during your strategic consultation.